Hello Hobie~

Thanks so much for visiting and for commenting on our website. I can only imagine the decision making process for you, and I am not one who has any stewardship there, but will pray for you to know the Lord’s will for you in your life at this time.

Please know that God will show you the way; many have chosen to go and not to go based on personal revelation. No young man or young woman is compelled to go at the new earlier age; young men can wait until the regular time and young women have an option to wait or not serve if so directed.

I do want to share with you this recent post from the Newsroom. http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/mormon-missionary-age-announcement-response.

Please check out the video of the one who was a lead player on a volleyball team and made, in her case, an inspired decision to go and serve–which doesn’t mean that that is the way for you. As you watch this and read other things, you may feel prompted either way or at least be inspired to get your own answer. D&C is really clear that you have to outline possible courses or “study it out” then make a tentative decision “Ask if it be right” and THEN you will know God’s will and answer in a way you will know is His voice to you.. Sometimes, fasting helps us clear the dust and get that answer.

Also, please see last month”s Ensign which includes young people making decisions–both to serve and not to serve– and how they arrived at those prayerfully.

Let me know if this helps.

Kindest,

Karen